Chapitre 30: Banquet (4)
Baron Gills' mansion was lively like never been before. Servants were busily running around taking care of things everywhere. The main hall had been decorated like a pretty jewel, one wouldn't recognize it as the same hall if they didn't know what was going on. The baron had spent a lot of money on the celebration. It was an event that would play a huge part in what was to come in the chaotic future. All the surrounding nobles had taken the time to attend it and he would allow no mistakes.
The servants hurriedly did last minute arrangements as the time of guest's arrival was approaching. The bustling mansion soon descended into a peaceful atmosphere and the servants began preparing for the upcoming banquet. One extravagant carriage after another stopped by the mansion's gate and well dressed men alighted in the company of elegantly dressed pretty women. The servants respectfully led the guests inside and the mansion came to life as the guests mingled with each other.
Vincent and company were inside Zach's carriage heading for the celebration. Nathan looked at his coat and frowned. "Young master Zach, isn't this too gaudy? No matter how I look at it, I don't see how this will leave a good impression."
Casper nodded to show that he felt the same way. Zach had brought out flashy dress for all four of them and Casper felt like he had wasted his morning at the tailor's place for no reason. Vincent found it alright since he could cover his flashy coat with a black formal robe. Same could be said for Zach. But, Casper and Nathan weren't provided with any robe and had to walk around showcasing their glittery coat garnished with silver.
"It's not gaudy at all, young master Nathan. Rather, you two look fabulous. The coat shines just like your brilliant personalities. Besides, this much is required to catch people's attention tonight. Here put on these ring brooches." Zach shrugged off Nathan's complaints and nudged Vincent with his elbow signaling him to provide help. Then he brought out four identical brooches and handed them to everyone. This would help show their closeness and identify them as a clique.
Vincent found himself between a rock and a tough place. While he didn't want to lie about it, he couldn't bring himself to praise Nathan and Casper like Zach did. In the end, he decided to say some vague things. "Indeed, you guys don't look shabby at all. Specially, Casper looks very valiant given his tall build."
Zach knew that one should strike the iron while it was hot. He didn't miss the opportunity and added, "That's right. I am sure the ladies will be all over Casper tonight, entranced by his tales of bravery. The part where he pushed away young master Nathan and blocked the bear's swipe gets my blood boiling every time I recall about it. Besides, silver represents strength and military accomplishments. How can we not follow the custom and dress up in Silver. After all, our objective tonight is to show off."
Casper seemed convinced after hearing the flattery directed at him but Nathan still found it hard to digest. "Then why are you two wearing robes? The coat underneath is garnished with silver after all. I am afraid people won't be able to witness your valor and feats of strength if you hide it under your robes."
Vincent started feeling a little uneasy. He didn't want to show up wearing the flashy coat no matter what. People of Esterin kingdom wore clothes garnished with silver in a victory celebration. Their party had only hunted a Scarlet bear. Though it was impressive, he didn't feel comfortable bragging about it like this. But, he also understood its importance tonight.
While Vincent was still thinking about how to put an end to Nathan's attempts, Zach, who had mastered the art of flattery came to his rescue. "I would have loved to do that, but sadly, we have to highlight our magical strength as well. If you think your clothes are embarrassing, take a look at Vincent's robe. Do you see these two circles? Imagine how bashful he must be feeling to show off the fact the he is a second circle wizard. Enough... we are almost there."
No matter how one looked at it, no one would find it shameful. After all, Vincent was incredibly young and already a second circle wizard. In fact, people would be impressed after looking at the two circles embroidered in the robe. Nathan wanted to point it out but Zach gave him no chance. He also realized that Zach had refrained from putting any circles in his robe. Probably because he found it shameful to be boasting about being a wizard while being beside Vincent who was both younger and stronger than him. In the end, Nathan just cursed at Zach's slyness in his heart and calmed himself down.
Their carriage arrived to the destination and the four of them alighted. Vincent was shocked by the extravagance of the place. The entire mansion was lit up with pretty lights and the soft sound of music could be heard coming from the inside. The company moved together and entered the venue. The sight inside was even more dazzling. Musicians were performing a beautiful peace under a huge chandelier made of crystals that gave off multicolored lights. Servants were scuttling around serving light snacks and drinks to the guests.
Nathan breathed a sigh of relief after noticing many youths who were dressed in a much more showy fashion. At least, now he felt like he had a good reason behind his get up. It wasn't uncommon for people of Esterin kingdom to dress up in order to show off their military and martial accomplishments. 'Looks like I was being too conscious.'
Zach on the other hand, was also grateful to all those people who liked to show off. At least, now he wouldn't need to worry about Nathan bugging him about the gaudy coat.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone